Establishing Ground Rules on the First (or Second) Day of Class

Establishing ground rules or "group norms" can go a long way in minimizing
disruptive classroom behaviors. If you decide to establish ground rules,
consider the following:

In small groups, have students develop one or two ground rules they
think should guide the class. Usually they come up with the same thing you
would, but they feel more ownership because they developed them.

Prior to developing ground rules, ask students how many of them attended
a class where one or more students' behaviors interfered with their
learning. List the types of behaviors they found disruptive on the board and
have them refer to this list as they develop ground rules. (Pike and Arch,
1997)

As the groups report, ask for consensus and tweak as needed. To save
time, ask each group to share only what they have that is different from the
last group that reported.

If the students leave out something you deem critical, add it.

If you have access to a teaching station, you (or a student) can type
these up as they are reported.

At the next class, bring a copy for everyone to sign and post it to your class site
for their reference.

You may find that you have to refer your students to the ground rules
throughout the semester, and in some instances even modify them.